Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay October 2020 by debbey wilson

E R F

HEALTHY

LIVING

HEALTHY

PLANET

Calm down Natural ways to relieve stress

National Chiropractic

Health Month

Pet Cancer PREVENTION TIPS

Healthy recipes to

Start the Day

Strengthen KNEE & HIP

JOINTS

October 2020 | Tampa Bay-Edition | NATampa.com

October 2020

HEALTHY LIVING HEALTHY PLANET

Tampa bay Edition PUBLISHER Debbey Wilson Editor Cheryl Hynes Design & Production Patrick Floresca contributing writer Eleanor Bailey sales & marketing Debbey Wilson CIRCULATION MANAGER Dean Wille accounting Susan Hoffman website Kyle Hass OPERATIONS Amy Hass

contact us Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay Ph: 727-865-9339 • Fax: 1-727-279-4717 dwilson@natampa.com NATampa.com Follow us on Facebook! DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS FREE email: dwilson@natampa.com to request or visit NATampa.com

national team CEO/Founder Sharon Bruckman COO/Franchise Sales Joe Dunne Art Director Josh Pope Layout & Design Gabrielle W-Perillo Financial Manager Yolanda Shebert Asst. Director of Ops Heather Gibbs Digital Content Director Rachael Oppy National Advertising Lisa Doyle-Mitchell Administrative Assistant Anne-Marie Ryan

Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4851 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 200 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2020 - by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

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Natural Awakenings is a family of nearly 60 healthy living magazines celebrating 26 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

Contents 24 CALM DOWN

Taming the Flames of Stress-Related Illness

28 WISHFUL RECYCLING What Not to Put in the Bin

30 TAI CHI AND QIGONG Life Force in Motion

32 STRESSED-OUT TEENS Ways to Help Them Chill

34 MARK NEPO

on Living a Wholehearted Life

36 STRONG AND

SUPPLE JOINTS

How to Keep Hips and Knees Happy

advertising & submissions how to advertise To advertise with Natural Awakenings or request a media kit, please contact us at 727-865-9339 or email dwilson@natampa.com. Deadline for ads: the 15th of the month. Editorial submissions Advertisers email articles, news briefs to dwilson@ natampa.com. Deadline for editorial: the 10th of the month. calendar submissions Email Calendar Events to: dwilson@natampa.com. Deadline for calendar: the 10th of the month. regional markets Advertise your products or services in multiple markets! Natural Awakenings Publishing Corp. is a growing franchised family of locally owned magazines serving communities since 1994. To place your ad in other markets call 727-865-9339. For franchising opportunities call 239-530-1377 or visit NaturalAwakenings.com. 8

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38 A BETTER BREAKFAST

Healthy Tips and Recipes to Start the Day

40 CANCER-FREE PETS

Five Ways to Help Keep Them Healthy

DEPARTMENTS 12 news briefs 16 health briefs 20 global briefs 28 green living 30 fit body 32 healthy kids

34 wise words 36 healing ways 38 conscious eating 40 natural pet 43 calendar 44 resource guide

letter from publisher

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ith October’s arrival, Tampa Bay’s chill tropical weather kicks up a notch closer to absolute perfection. Plus, Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay October 2020 is here with further stimulation for mind, body and spirit! These days, many are finding and reviving inner strengths we may have forgotten we had. As always, deeply felt holistic goals of the natural health community continue to inspire social and personal wellbeing. This month, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Natural Awakenings here in Tampa Bay, a tradition of which I am especially proud. We trust you will find this autumn issue filled to the max with empowering news and views. Stress is no stranger to many of us these days. Writer Marlaina Donato gets to the heart of the matter in her article, “Calm Down: Taming the Flames of Stress-Related Illness” (page 24). It is truly amazing how stress affects so many levels of wellness; gaining understanding of how to deal with it is a powerful way to go. It is heartwarming to see the local volunteers and nonprofits stepping forward with healing ways to meet needs in our community. Among its many services, the Feeding Tampa Bay organization’s widening distribution network provides ongoing access to vitamin-rich, fresh and free fruits and vegetables to economically challenged folks throughout Hillsborough and Pinellas counties (FeedingTampaBay.org). In addition to meeting growing human need, such actions build upon much needed infrastructures designed to help now and into the future. As always, with an open heart and an open mind, please enjoy reading on.

National Chiropractic Health Month

The American Chiropractic Association has designated October as National Chiropractic Health Month to raise public awareness of the importance of musculoskeletal health and the benefits of chiropractic care and its natural, whole-person, patient-centered and drug-free approach to health and wellness. See local Chiropractors on pages 11, 14, 25, 33 and 44. 10

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news briefs

Visit St. Pete Health & Wellness at Fall Health and Fitness Festival

t’s more important than ever that we support each other in practicing and learning about healthy, safe living. St. Pete Health and Wellness, in collaboration with other health and fitness professionals, is bringing optimal wellness resources to the St. Pete community. A family event, they hope you will bring yours to join the party, from 9 am to 2 p.m., October 3, at Hell’s Bells Performance Training, in St. Pete. There will be a live DJ, food and drinks, and fantastic vendors, including doctors, nurse practitioners, massage therapists, fitness experts, physical therapists, IV infusion specialists, acupuncturists, herbalists, supplement specialists, life coaches, health coaches, yoga therapists, essential oil experts, dermatologists, healthy food services and even more. CDC guidelines followed, including wearing masks (custom mask-maker on site; come pick yours). One-hundred percent of the profits are being donated to the Alpha House of Pinellas County, whose mission is to provide housing and supportive services to homeless pregnant women and teens, new mothers and families experiencing crisis pregnancies. Alpha House is Pinellas County’s only residential maternity program. Brought to you by MAR Acupuncture + Medical Center; Hell’s Bells Performance Training; Welcome Home Family Chiropractic + Wellness Group; and SportsRx Physical Therapy. Everyone looks forward to seeing you! Location: 131 22nd St. S, St. Petersburg. For more information, call 727-202-6807 ext. 104. See ad pages 9 & 19.

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Spirit Dancing with Allarah

llarah LaVelle (also known as Allarah Shashona) is back in Florida and will be scheduling classes and offering private Movement Meditation/Spirit Dancing sessions in beautiful outdoor settings (eventually indoors as things once again open up and Covid is in the past). Allarah guides participants to states of ecstasy, perhaps the likes of which they have never before experienced, as one lets go of expectations and listens to their body. “Surrender to your head… how does it want to move? Let it guide your whole body… BREATHE… exhale all that no longer serves you.” “Listen to your body parts… feel the beat in your feet… breathe in the Earth…” These are some of the statements heard as the individual lets go and allows their body to guide their every movement… as they flow and move to the beat of rhythmic drumming and flute music. Participants further experience sound healing within their body and chakras as they move and follow the bliss of Reiki drumming and rattling, using various manifesting and healing techniques based on Allarah’s book, The Dance of the Spirit-Healing: Releasing and Manifesting Through Movement and Sound. Other therapies offered by Allarah include intuitive chakra readings and healing amulets/talismans. For event listings, more information and/or to register, call 520-349-4884, email Allarah2222@gmail.com and/or visit AllarahsHolisticAlternatives. com, Facebook.com/healing379, and Facebook.com/mysticshaman1111. See ad page 45.

Restore, Rebalance, Relax at Bodhi Wellness Center in St. Pete

Body Mind Spirit Expo this November in Tampa

here is no greater time for personal introspection and conscious thinking than during times of great global and personal challenge. For more than 35 years, Body Mind Spirit Expos have been the place where the conscious community gathers to learn the latest breakthroughs, think about what makes our paths so important and uplift in the sense of togetherness. Coming to Tampa for the 17th year, November 21 to 22, at the Florida State Fairgrounds Special Event Center, the expo brings to life a positive healing environment. The best from Tampa Bay join with others from around the country to provide the essential tools for discovering overall health and wellbeing. Providing under one roof an amazing weekend, retail exhibitors offer everything from natural and holistic health products to spiritual books and enlightened art. Healers provide treatments ranging from massage and yoga techniques to intuitive readings. The floorplan is designed with social distancing along with many other Covid-aware practices throughout the expo, from no- or low-touch entry, hand sanitizer and one-directional traffic flows to frequent cleaning of high touch areas, lots of signage and reduced capacity in the talks. Cost: $12/weekend, includes all lectures, demos and admission to the Exhibit Hall. Location: 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N, Tampa. For more information and $1 off, call Ali, 541-482-3722 ext. 412 and/or visit bmse.net. See ad below.

odhi Massage Therapy & Wellness is welcoming clients to their new and expanded location at 506 Pasadena Avenue South, in St. Petersburg. Offering professional massage therapy and energy healing options to the public is of the utmost importance to licensed massage therapist and owner, Amanda Kovach. She believes now, more than ever, it is so important to be practicing self-care. Guests visiting the studio for solutions to pain relief, tension and stress will find a clean, calming and healing atmosphere. From the reception area replete with local art, wellness products and nature-inspired jewelry to the inviting and cozy treatment rooms, visitors feel safe and welcomed to relax, allowing the therapies to restore and rebalance. Bodhi’s therapists provide treatments that encourage natural healing from within the body. Utilizing proven techniques gleaned from both eastern and western traditions along with energetic forms of healing, the professional and caring team is committed to providing clients with a customized healing experience. Massage therapy options include Relaxation, Reflexology, Therapeutic, Neuromuscular Therapy, Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage, Deep Tissue and Sports, Lymphatic Drainage, Prenatal, Vibroacoustic Sound Therapy, Massage Cupping, and Warm Himalayan Salt Stone Massage. Offering appointments seven days a week. Call 727-344-9857 or visit Bodhi-MassageTherapy.com. See ad page 26.

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Come ‘n’ Get Your Herbs at the Health Hut

t the Health Hut, in Wesley Chapel, the Earth comes first in everything they do, thus why they leave their seven-acre herb farm wild and untamed. They allow the plants to grow as they want—especially the precious Florida natives. They don’t believe their plants need any additional tending beyond love, attention and the organic diet they receive, made naturally from the leaves that drop from the tall trees and the organic matter left by the resident chickens and goats. In simpler terms: this is an organic farm. When it comes to harvesting, they cannot and will not harvest an entire plant at once as this could decimate its very existence. Additionally, this could also upset the balance / the natural synergy of the whole farm. During and after every harvest, plants are honored for sharing their healing and life-giving properties; then dried goods are prepared. Plant material is placed in a dehydrator at the appropriate temperature and time (based on each plant’s specific needs) to ensure the highest quality healing product. Most plants are developed low and slow to maintain their healing properties optimally. Bulk herbs available by the ounce; costs vary from herb to herb. Location: 26403 Chianina Dr., Wesley Chapel. For more information, call 813-991-5177, email Rose@imHerbalist.com or visit imHerbalist.com or Instagram @thenaturalhealthhut. See ad page 22.

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Thermal Temperature Monitoring Solution

t could become a new workplace standard in the first line of defense against Covid-19. It’s called a thermal imaging camera. Armed with advanced thermal imaging technology, the camera scans the body temperature of an individual in less than one second, enabling instant detection of an elevated skin temperature. A person simply walks up to the camera and the system will let the individual know if their temperature is normal or too high. This small business office solution comes in two styles: the countertop or kiosk. The countertop thermal imaging camera can be placed on a receptionist desk or mounted to a wall. The kiosk thermal imaging camera can be placed upon entry into the business. Both are conveniently portable and, once plugged into an electric outlet, require no programming and no internet access. Now available through FFSWGlobal, this thermal imaging system can easily be installed in restaurants, hotels, clinics, office buildings, homes, hospitals, cruise ships and more. Not a medical device and not designed or intended for diagnosis, the prevention or treatment of any disease or condition, these thermographic systems are screening tools that businesses and households can use as part of a holistic biosecurity plan. Location: 795 Commerce Dr., Ste. 4, Venice. For more information and to schedule a demo, call 727-865-9339.

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health briefs

Improve Exercise and Recovery with Avocados and Beets

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Tasty and loaded with vitamins and minerals, avocados are a â&#x20AC;&#x153;healthy fatâ&#x20AC;? that can speed recovery after exercise, reports a new Brazilian study. Researchers gave 12 women either 600 milliliters (mL) of avocado pulp or a placebo in capsules. After waiting an hour, the women ran on a treadmill for half an hour, then recovered for an hour. Metabolic tests of heart rate, heart rate variability and skin conductance indicated those taking the avocado pulp recovered faster than those given a placebo. In another new study, 12 Spanish men were able to do more back squats in weight-lift training an hour after drinking 12 mL of beet root juice compared with a placebo, suggesting the nitrate-rich drink improves muscular endurance.

Eat Fruit, Veggies and Whole Grains to Lower Diabetes Risk The risk of diabetes can be slashed by loading a plate with fruit, veggies and whole grains, suggests two new studies in The British Medical Journal. European researchers measured fruit and vegetable consumption by testing the blood levels of vitamin C and carotenoids, the pigments found in colorful produce, in 9,754 people with Type 2 diabetes and 13,662 people free of the condition. They found that each average daily intake of 66 grams of fruit and vegetables (about one-third of a cup) reduced diabetes risk by 25 percent. The top fifth of fruit-and-veggie eaters had half the risk of diabetes compared to those that rarely ate produce. In a second study, American researchers using population research with more than 200,000 participants found those that ate the most whole grains had a 29 percent lower rate of Type 2 diabetes compared to those that ate the least amount. Eating one or more servings per day of whole-grain, cold breakfast cereal lowered the risk by 19 percent; dark bread lowered it 21 percent. Eating two or more servings per week of oatmeal lowered risk 21 percent; bran, 15 percent; and brown rice and wheat germ, 12 percent. 16

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Manage Bowel Disease to Reduce Dementia Risk The 3 million Americans dealing with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, may also suffer twice the risk of dementia, a new study in the journal Gut suggests. Taiwanese researchers tracked 1,740 IBD patients for 16 years and compared their cognitive health to that of 17,420 other adults without IBD. They found that IBD patients had more than three times the rate of all types of dementia—5.5 percent versus 1.5 percent—compared to those without IBD; after removing other factors like age and underlying conditions, they concluded that IBD doubled dementia risk. Of all the dementia types, the risk for Alzheimer’s disease was greatest: those with IBD were six times as likely to develop it than were those without the disease. Also, people with IBD were diagnosed with dementia seven years earlier, at age 76 rather than 83. The study on the gut-brain axis aligns with others in indicating that chronic inflammation and imbalanced gut bacteria are potential contributors to cognitive decline. “The identification of increased dementia risk and earlier onset among patients with IBD suggest that [they] might benefit from education and increased clinical vigilance,” wrote the study’s authors.

Try Cinnamon to Reduce Migraines Cinnamon, long known to help blood sugar levels, can diminish migraine attacks, according to a new study in Phytotherapy Research from Iran. Fifty patients with migraines took either three capsules a day of 600 milligrams (about a quarter teaspoon) of cinnamon or a placebo. After two months, those taking cinnamon had significantly reduced severity, frequency and duration of migraine episodes. Most of the world’s cinnamon is Cinnamomum verum, produced in Sri Lanka, also called Ceylon cinnamon. Cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum iners) is not accepted as a true cinnamon by herbalists.

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Ease Depression and Anxiety with Probiotics With the gut-brain axis increasingly under scrutiny, two studies provide new evidence of how the microbiome, or gut bacteria, affects mental health. In a review in BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health of seven high-quality probiotic and prebiotic studies, researchers found that 11 out of 12 probiotics studied produced “measurable reductions in depression.” The major strains studied were Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. casei and Bifidobacterium bifidum. In a second study in the journal Nutrients, 20 male soccer players ages 18 to 21 received either a placebo or a probiotics drink with L. casei for two months. By week four, those drinking the probiotic drink had significantly more relaxed (theta) and attentive (delta) brain waves, suggesting lowered anxiety and enhanced training ability. The probiotics drink also improved cognitive reaction time in the subjects. October 2020

— FLU & COVID SEASON —

A Cheat Sheet for Your Health

by Dr. Mara S. Kevan, DACM, LAc, Dipl Ac

ith the fall cold-flu season coming and the continued spread of COVID-19, it is an imperative time to discuss immunity. One of the most important concepts that I like to instill in patients is the value of prevention. Four areas to focus on to prevent infection are tonic herbs, diet, sleep and sunlight.

Immune Boosting Herbs

Echinacea: infection prevention and for the acute phase of infection.

Astragalus: infection prevention. Stop taking during the acute phase of infection. Ginseng Root: boosts immune system and energy. Elderberry: infection prevention, antiviral activity and enhances cytokine production. Medicinal Mushrooms: infection prevention. It is best to start taking them a 18

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couple of months prior to the cold-flu season. Examples: reishi, shiitake, maitake, lion’s mane, cordyceps. Preferred formulas combine four or more mushrooms. I also recommend an antiviral herbal tea to include quercetin and shikimic acid. These are used to prevent and treat the H5N1 influenza virus and all the known strains of influenza virus. A custom tea includes Chinese star anise and is truly a preventive formula, blocking COVID-19, other coronaviruses and influenza viral strains from entering the respiratory system. Let’s discuss how herbs can prevent and/or reduce the effects. Stage 1: an asymptomatic incubation period with or without detectable virus. Stage 2: a non-severe symptomatic period with the presence of virus. Stage 3: a severe respiratory symptomatic stage with a high viral load.

Diet

Practice that food is medicine. It is best to eat with the NATampa.com

seasons. As we come into fall, focus on the superfoods of apples, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, pears, rutabaga, cauliflower, squash, pumpkin, sweet potato, turnips, pomegranates, dates, kiwi, grapefruit and tangerines. Always eat double the amount of veggies to the amount of fruit, and focus on organic and locally sourced. If you’re including animal-based protein, the portion should be no bigger than the size and width of your palm; make sure it’s wild caught, humanely raised and harvested, grass-fed, without hormones/ antibiotics. Avoid fast food, processed meats and sugars, dairy, excessive caffeine and alcohol.

Ahh, Sleep!

Getting eight to nine hours of deep, restful sleep at night is the cornerstone to a healthy mind and body. Sleep is when our body restores and recovers from the day’s events. If you’re not waking rested in the morning, there could be hormone, neurotransmitter and/or breathing issues as the underlying cause.

Sunshine!

The sun is the best source of vitamin D. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it makes vitamin D from cholesterol. The sun’s UVB rays hit cholesterol in the skin cells, providing the energy for vitamin D synthesis to occur in the liver and kidneys. Another option is a rich, whole-food source of vitamin D found in cod liver oil, mackerel and salmon. Vitamin D has many important functions in the body such as bone health, preventing autoimmune diseases, and decreasing susceptibility to infection. St. Petersburg Health and Wellness is located at 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg. For more information on how to boost immune systems, call 727-202-6807 and ask for Dr. Mara. See ad right.

Short Circuit

global briefs

Stealth Mode

Blackest Fish in the Sea Aid Scientific Research

Scientists from Duke University and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History have found that the skin of 16 species of deep-sea fish absorbs more than 99.95 percent of the light that hits them. As published in Current Biology, Dr. Karen Osborn co-led the research that discovered the extraordinary properties while attempting to photograph specimens. Even using cutting-edge equipment, she could not see any detail. “It didn’t matter how you set up the camera or lighting; [the fish] just sucked up all the light,” she tells BBC Science Focus. The source of the ultrablack color is melamin which is distributed within melanosomes that are densely packed into cells on the fish skin. Because of the unique shape and arrangement of these melanosomes, incoming light is redirected toward another cell to absorb it. In the deep-sea environment in which they live, even the smallest amount of reflected light can attract predators, so this form of camouflage improves their chances of survival. Some scientists believe it is possible to make similar ultra-black substances for sensitive optical equipment.

A partnership formed in 2017 between the United Nations International Telecommunication Union, the International Solid Waste Association and other groups to track the accumulation of electronic debris has reported via the publication Global E-Waste Monitor 2020 that a record 53.6 million metric tons of electronics were discarded in 2019 and could likely increase to 74.7 million tons per year by 2030. E-waste includes battery-powered and plug-in laptop computers, smartphones and televisions. Not only are people using more consumer electronics, they are not doing a good job of recycling them safely. The report found that of the e-waste generated in 2019, only 9.3 million tons, or 17.4 percent, were recycled. Cadmium and mercury are conspicuous sources of pollution from these devices, as are refrigerant chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons and hydrochlorofluorocarbons that can leach into the environment. Plastic waste is another concern. The report states that e-waste contains so many valuable recoverable metals such as iron, copper and gold that it represents a prime opportunity to reclaim these raw materials instead of mining them anew.

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Electronic Waste is Out of Control

Corporate Hero

Apple, Inc., the maker of the iPhone, iPad and Mac computers, has committed to becoming 100 percent carbon neutral overall, from its supply chain to retail outlets, by 2030. The goal is to achieve a zero net climate impact. According to BBC Science Focus Magazine, CEO Tim Cook says, “Businesses have a profound opportunity to help build a more sustainable future, one born of our common concern for the planet we share. The innovations powering our environmental journey are not only good for the planet, they’ve helped us make our products more energy-efficient and bring new sources of clean energy online around the world. Climate action can be the foundation for a new era of innovative potential, job creation and durable economic growth. With our commitment to carbon neutrality, we hope to be a ripple in the pond that creates a much larger change.” If successful, the 10-year plan will reduce carbon emissions by 75 percent and develop solutions such as the use of low carbon and recycled materials to achieve the other 25 percent. 20

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Apple Seeks 2030 Carbon Neutrality

Oarweed Odyssey

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Scottish Kelp Provides Clues to Climate Change

The BBC reports that experts from Heriot-Watt University, in Orkney, Scotland, have discovered kelp off the coasts of Scotland, Ireland and France that has survived for 16,000 years since the last ice age. Analyzing the genetic composition of oarweed from 14 areas across the northern Atlantic Ocean, they found three distinct genetic clusters and hope the discovery will show how marine plant life survives extreme changes in climate. Their findings were published in the European Journal of Phycology. Marine ecologist Dr. Andrew Want says that oarweed populations from Kirkwall Bay managed to hang on and survive amid dramatic changes: “As the ice sheets retreated from northern European shorelines at the end of the most recent ice age, oarweed distribution followed and recolonized [in] the higher latitudes of the Atlantic. Kelp plays a critical role in the Atlantic, so it is important to understand what affects its distribution and survival over time and how sensitive it is to change.” Molecular ecologist Dr. Joao Neiva, from Portugal’s University of Algarve Centre of Marine Sciences, says, “Our study shows how marine organisms adjust to shifting climates by migrating polewards and even across the Atlantic, when conditions are favorable.”

October 2020

Baby Boo-Boo

As reported in The Lancet, researchers at the University of Washington Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation showed the global total fertility rate (TFR) nearly halved from 1950 levels, when women had an average of 4.7 children each, to 2.4 in 2017. The study indicates it could fall below 1.7 by the turn of the century. As a result, global population may peak at 9.7 billion around 2064 before falling to 8.8 billion by 2100. Some nations will also age dramatically, with as many people becoming senior citizens as those being born. If the fertility rate falls below a ratio of about two to one, then the size of the population starts to fall. Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the report states, “Our findings suggest that continued trends in female educational attainment and access to contraception will hasten declines in fertility and slow population growth. A sustained TFR lower than the replacement level in many countries, including China and India, would have economic, social, environmental and geopolitical consequences. Policy options to adapt to continued low fertility while sustaining and enhancing female reproductive health will be crucial in the years to come.”

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Falling Fertility Rate Threatens World Stability

Gas Blasters

A worldwide inventory of methane sources reported by researchers online in Environmental Research Letters reveals that atmospheric levels of the heat-trapping greenhouse gas are at an all-time high. Science News reports that methane “is one of the most important greenhouse gases—arguably the second-most important after CO2,” according to atmospheric scientist Alexander Turner. Methane can trap approximately 30 times as much heat as the same amount of CO2. Possible solutions include strategies to moderate pollution such as consuming less meat to cut down on emissions from cattle ranches and using aircraft or satellites to find gas pipeline leaks. In 2017, human activities discharged about 364 million metric tons of methane into the atmosphere, compared with 324 million tons per year on average in the early 2000s. About half of the increase was the result of expanding agriculture and landfills, while the rest came from fossil fuels. Emissions from natural sources such as wetlands held steady. 22

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Record Methane Emissions Driven by Agriculture and Fossil Fuels

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L-carnitine is naturally found in dark meat, so vegetarians and vegans may become deficient. A carnitine deficiency resulting in impaired lipid metabolism can lead to symptoms of muscle weakness and fatigue. This is most often the result of fat accumulating in both skeletal and heart muscles and the liver. Here is a summary of the health benefits of LemonAid: • Supports the body’s production of much needed energy • Helps keep the body from storing fat • Increases aerobic capacity to burn more calories

LemonAid to Get Fit, Lose Weight and Gain Energy by Kim Kaplan, RD

re you trying to get lean, gain muscle and/or increase your energy? LemonAid Drink has the perfect combination of nutrients to support those goals, with a combination of the amino acid L-carnitine tartrate and D-ribose powder. Studies suggest that L-carnitine increases the burning of fat as a fuel source by transporting the fat that we eat into our cells to produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the primary source of energy our cells produce and our bodies use. D-ribose is essential for ATP production. Although it is a natural sugar, it should not increase blood sugar levels. It is stored in our cellular mitochondria and muscles and used to support a biochemical pathway to produce ATP.

LemonAid can be a first line of support for building more muscle, burning fat and reducing exercise-induced muscle soreness. Carnitine helps to maintain muscle mass while losing weight so we can avoid slowing our metabolic rate. This, in turn, can enhance our ability to lose weight and keep it off. (1) Other beneficial side effects from consuming carnitine include lowering elevated triglycerides and Lp(a), a lipid which puts us at higher cardiac and stroke risk. Carnitine can also work as an appetite suppressant. Ribose gives the energy boost the body needs to keep muscles, heart and brain energized. This ability to keep the brain energized may help reduce brain fog. It can increase aerobic capacity to burn more calories and improve exercise/athletic performance. (2)

• Reduces fatigue • Serves as an appetite suppressant • Builds muscle • Gluten free • No artificial stimulants L-carnitine has a natural tart flavor while D-ribose is naturally sweet. The combination of the two creates a delicious “lemonade” powder with incredible health benefits. LemonAid was developed by Lorri Franckle, REEGT, PA, who has extensive experience in the healthcare field as a physician’s assistant and EEG technician as well as years of nutrition training and sales in professional nutriceuticals. To learn more, visit FatToEnergy.com. Muller DM, Seim H. Effects of oral L-carnitine supplementation on in vivo long-chain fatty acid oxidation in healthy adults. Metabolism 2002 Nov;51 (11):138991 Hongu N, Sachan DS. Carnitine and choline supplementation with exercise alter carnitine profiles, biochemical marker of fat metabolism. J Nurr. 2003 Jan;133(1):849. Segal, S. and J. Foley. 1

The metabolism of D-ribose in man. J. Clinical Invest. 37;719 735, 1958. 2

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat cure or prevent any disease. October 2020

Calm Down Taming the Flames of Stress-Related Illness

by Marlaina Donato

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e are beings of neurochemical and hormonal intricacy, and within this mixed bag of biology lies our magic. Our human experience is visceral; we cry from sadness and joy, flush from embarrassment, laugh with amusement and exhibit quirky mannerisms when we lie. Whether we see it as a blessing or a curse, we’re hardwired to embody the sacred fire of our emotions. It also means that stress and our bodies are in perpetual partnership. “Systematically, the mind and body work together. Grabbing your belly when you hear bad news and saying, ‘I feel sick,’ or having ‘butterflies in your stomach’ are a testament to how everyday stress affects us physically,” says Stephanie Mansour, Chicago fitness expert and host of the national PBS show Step It Up With Steph. “Stress serves a useful purpose by increasing alertness—the sometimes lifesaving ‘fight-or-flight’ response—but chronic stress leads to elevated stress hormones like cortisol and catecholamines,” says emergency room physician Thomas Krisanda, at Northwest Hospital, in Randallstown, Maryland. “Cortisol can elevate blood glucose and suppress the immune system. Elevated catecholamines raise blood pressure and stress the heart. Over time, this can lead to hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes or strokes.” According to The American Institute of Stress, 77 percent of people experience the physical backlash of emotional stress in the form of headaches, chronic migraines, fatigue, digestive woes, muscle tension, dizziness and changes in libido. Research published this year in the Journal of the American Heart Association shows that children that experience severe adversity or live with alcoholics or drug addicts are at a 50 percent higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease later in life. Experts agree that this statistic goes beyond poor lifestyle choices, and might point to a biological inability to cope with everyday pressures. Working with—rather than against—the body’s nervous system by employing lifestyle changes, releasing trauma and considering options like a nourishing diet, safe herbal options and gentle energy modalities can help to break a vicious cycle.

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Gut Instincts Studies involving both mice and humans show that beneficial gut microorganisms are altered by emotional stress. The same bacteria responsible for bolstering the body’s fortress of immunity also generate neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurochemicals in the gut’s enteric nervous

system control major biological functions that include heart rate, sleep cycles, muscle movement and mood. While commonly prescribed antibiotics eradicate infectious invaders, they also kill off beneficial bacteria and neurotransmitters, opening the door to depressive disorders. Because approximately 95 percent of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut, it’s not surprising that overuse of antibiotics has been associated with mental health conditions. British research published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2015 documents case-control studies over an 18-year period involving 202,974 patients with depression. The findings show a high risk for anxiety and depression following repeated antibiotic use. Connecting the dots further, 2018 research published in the Journal of Neuroendocrinology correlates compromised intestinal permeability with a weakened blood-brain barrier and alcohol addiction. Research published in 2014 in the journal PLOS One involving patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) reveals abnormalities in catecholamines, elevated plasma cortisol and hyperactivity of the amygdala—the part of the brain that can become stuck on overdrive from trauma and other life stresses. In a nutshell, negative emotional states can suppress immunity and foster more frequent antibiotic prescriptions and in turn, promote neurological loops of chronic depression and anxiety, and even more compromised immune response. Functional gastrointestinal disorders

like IBS and inflammation-driven Crohn’s disease are often exacerbated by emotional upset and improved with stress management techniques like biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, hypnotherapy, meditation and breath work.

One Body, Many Selves Resolving emotional trauma can offer unexpected hope for conditions that elude improvement or scientific understanding. A deeper look into how unrecognized or unreleased emotional pain can contribute to disease might help to solve the riddle of digestive problems, eczema, inflammatory bowel conditions and pain syndromes, including the multi-system agonies of fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. It’s a widespread misunderstanding that psychosomatic (mind-body) health conditions are imaginary or the product of mental instability. In actuality, the term psychosomatic simply refers to physical diseases with no organic origin that are presumed to have unconscious emotional taproots. “We are made up of different types of energy,” explains LaStacia Ross, a reiki master and sound healer at Eclectic Soul Studio, in Pittsburg, Kansas. “Physical or sensory energy is the energy of the physical body. Our outer energy field is subtle energy which consists of layers and includes thoughts and emotions. I like to think of the subtle energy field as a library containing the records of everything we’ve ever experienced.”

Reiki, a form of non-touch therapy, is now deemed valuable by many respected hospitals, like the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, in Manhattan. Springboarding from the philosophy that we are trinities of body, mind and spirit, reiki and other forms of energy medicine aim to encourage the flow of vital life force. Ross, who also uses sound resonance via tuning forks in her work, has witnessed significant improvement in her clients. “Energy work can help release stored energetic patterns of trauma and stress that no longer serve us,” she says. “Relaxation is an immediate benefit of energy work. People often feel a huge mental weight lifted and report pain relief, sometimes after just one session.” Despite the many gains of energy work, Ross emphasizes individual timing. “On a subconscious level, pain or illness can serve us in some way without us realizing it. Sometimes we’re not ready to work through our issues or let them go, even if we think we are.”

Investing in Equilibrium

Stress-induced psychosomatic illness does not discriminate, and even affects members of the medical field. A 2009 study published in the Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that professional burnout in nurses can manifest as back and neck pain, acidity, anger and impaired memory. Krisanda underscores the importance of self-care in all walks of life. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you are useless to care

October 2020

Plant Power for Combating Stress Sarah Kate Benjamin’s Personal Favorites: Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) soothes restless minds from anxiety and insomnia, and eases menstrual cramps or muscle spasms. Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) helps to strengthen the brain and revitalize the central nervous system, and helps to calm the mind and relieve nervous stress and headaches. It is even more beneficial when combined with lavender or chamomile. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) helps to soothe emotional and muscle tension; relieve stress-related gut symptoms like gas, cramping, irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers; calm heat-related emotional and physical issues such as eczema, anger and frustration; and generally promote a sense of calm. Wonderful in baths, teas and as an herbal garnish. In addition to Benjamin’s recommendations, other stress-fighting herbs to consider are Ginkgo, panax and Siberian ginseng, fo-ti, rhodiola, reishi mushroom, goji berries, licorice root, lavender, rose, lemon balm, tulsi (holy basil), ashwagandha and mimosa bark.

for others. Adopt a healthy diet and exercise and make it a routine. We live in a very materialistic society, and I believe this also leads to stress, unhappiness and a sense of being entitled and never being satisfied. Just let go.” He also stresses the importance of support. “An emergency room is an incredibly hectic, frightening and sometimes violent place. I rely on my colleagues, and we support each other. For me, the most important thing is to realize that I’m not in it alone.” Krisanda also finds balance by taking a few minutes in a quiet place to collect his thoughts and enjoy a peaceful moment. Basic, whole foods can help to maintain homeostasis. “Make sure that food is fueling you,” says Mansour. “Cooked vegetables and broths are very soothing. Instead of a juice cleanse or an extreme diet, focus on nourishing, calming foods like soups, lean proteins to stabilize blood sugar levels and healthy fats to support brain function. Reducing alcohol can help improve liver function.” Sarah Kate Benjamin, a holistic chef and herbalist in Sebastopol, California, finds her own healing rhythms by eating with the seasons and using medicinal plants 26

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in inspired, everyday dishes. Co-author of The Kosmic Kitchen Cookbook: Everyday Herbalism and Recipes for Radical Wellness, she sees herbs as life-giving examples of resilience. “Herbs have been here long before us and have experienced their own form of stressors. Working with nervous systemsupportive herbs in my food, beverages or even as tinctures really help me find balance when I’m overwhelmed.” Some of her allies are oat tops, lemon balm, skullcap, chamomile and passionflower. For Benjamin, everyday choices play a huge role in healing. “Making small lifestyle shifts in your work or home life can really help you move into a more relaxed state. I like to think of it as a sort of mantra: ‘Help the herbs help you,’” she says. In a world that is fixated on external validation, little things matter. “If I give myself permission to do the things that really nourish me, I’ll be the best version of myself. Perhaps most importantly, I will like me, and that matters tremendously.” Marlaina Donato is an author and recording artist. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com.

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green living

Wishful Recycling What Not to Put in the Bin by Yvette C. Hammett

or those that have been putting recyclables in a plastic bag and placing it in a curbside bin, it’s likely going straight into a landfill. That bowling ball, those yard clippings and dirty pizza boxes are contaminating the recycling stream and increasing the cost of recycling programs nationwide at a particularly challenging time amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The continuing rise in contaminated items is known in the biz as “wishful recycling”. The current crisis is only making it worse. In some places, recycling itself is becoming wishful. As stores and restaurants struggle to survive, local tax revenues have dropped sharply, forcing municipalities to slash budgets. Many small towns and a few big cities have stopped recycling programs altogether. Others have cut back on what they will accept or substituted drop-off bins for curbside pickup. States are pulling back from encouraging bottle-deposit returns. The plastic masks, gloves and wipes mistakenly tossed into recycle bins are endangering waste workers that must remove them. With the coronavirus shown to cling to plastic for three days, many workers around the country have become ill from such exposure. Meanwhile, waste is mounting. Consumers are now having groceries delivered, picking them up or ordering them online, adding hundreds of millions more plastic bags and cardboard boxes to the waste stream. The Solid Waste Association of North America estimates that U.S. cities saw a 20 percent average increase in municipal solid waste and recycling collection in March and part of April. And because China stopped accepting 99 percent of the world’s recyclables two years ago, recycling operations are struggling for disposal locations. “There is the potential for households to generate more waste than they did before, but there is also an opportunity to focus on waste prevention, increase your reuse and recycling efforts, and use food more efficiently,” the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency advises on epa.gov. “Now is a great time to focus on waste prevention where possible, and 28

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when recycling, keep the materials as clean and dry as possible.” To be more conscious about recycling habits, “Instead of, ‘When in doubt, throw it in,’ it should be, ‘When in doubt, throw it out,’” says David Keeling, president of the National Recycling Coalition. The Washington State nonprofit Sustainable Connections estimates that 25 percent of what goes into recycling containers is not recyclable. “Contamination significantly increases the cost to process recyclables and makes it harder for processors to market their products, creating a huge economic challenge,” according to SustainableConnections.org. “We rely on the private sector to take away our waste, and they need to be able to turn a profit in order to run a viable business.” Unfortunately, “Across the country and within Florida, we are seeing a growing trend on contamination in recycling,” says Travis Barnes, recycling coordinator of Florida’s Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa. The worst offenders, he says, are people that don’t sufficiently clean out mayonnaise or ketchup containers, as well as put plastic bags in the recycling bin that can become entangled in multimillion-dollar equipment, bringing the entire sorting process to a halt. Beth Porter, climate campaigns director for the nonprofit Green America and author of Reduce, Reuse, Reimagine: Sorting

Out the Recycling System, says there’s a lot of confusion on what to put in the bin. She points to Michigan, which aims for 30 percent recycling by 2025 and created videos featuring “Recycling Raccoons” that offer instructions on proper sorting. In Washington, D.C., says Porter, “Workers peek in recycling bins and can tag the bin with some specific info telling you not to throw in plastic bags and contaminated stuff,” lowering contamination rates by 30 percent. “The public demands curbside recycling,” Barnes says. “It is highly ranked as something the public wants,” but people also need to be more aware to make the system more efficient. Even with the current challenges, environmentalists see recycling as a key strategy for a planet sinking under plastic waste. “As we navigate this new reality together, consumers whose circumstances allow for it should begin to reshape how they think about plastic pollution,” advises the World Economic Forum website weForum.org. “It’s a real and present crisis we can stop in its tracks right now—if we make choices that lead to a cleaner and more sustainable future.”

REASON #16: Results Within 2 Business Days!

Yvette C. Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. Connect at YvetteHammettHull49@gmail.com.

Rules for Recycling

7901 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 info@greenpointthermography.com 727-576-0100

Here is a list of broadly accepted common rules for recyclables from Currents: Navigating Society & Sea, a blog of the University of Washington School of Marine and Environmental Affairs, in Seattle: Pizza boxes? No. Almost all takeout containers are contaminated with greasy food residue. Single-use coffee cups and lids? Many coffee shops use compostable cups that go in the compost bin or garbage. Recycle the lid. Plastic grocery bags? No, not in residential recycling, but they can be returned to the store in most cases. Soup cans and other steel cans? Definitely, but remove the lid first and rinse the cans.

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Milk and juice cartons? Yes. Leave the spouts, but toss the caps. Rinse the containers. Do not flatten them to avoid confusion during sorting. Styrofoam? No. Styrofoam is not accepted for residential recycling. For local waste management rules, contact municipal or county offices. October 2020

fit body

Tai Chi and Qigong Life Force in Motion

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by Marlaina Donato

he flowing movement of tai chi mirrors the serenity of water, but still waters run deep. This ancient practice of gentle meditative movement is an offshoot of Chinese martial arts that offers a spectrum of surprising benefits, including healthier soft tissues and bones, as well as improved sleeping. According to Harvard Health Publishing, when practiced consistently, tai chi supports both upper and lower body strength with effects that are akin to resistance training and brisk walking. Tai chi helps to fine-tune neurons of the inner ear and encourages muscle and ligament flexibility, resulting in better balance and fewer falls. The practice is highly adaptable and anyone can benefit, even those that are wheelchair-bound or recovering from surgery. “It appears effortless, with slow and smooth movements, but there is immense power underneath the tranquility,” says Paul Lam, family physician and director of the Tai Chi for Health Institute, in Sydney, Australia. “Tai chi has been shown by over 500 medical studies to benefit almost all aspects of health, including mobility, immunity and heart and lung function.” Lam also highlights other related benefits, including lower blood pressure, less arthritis pain and stress relief. 30

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Research published last year in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows that 12 weeks of tai chi practice initiated beneficial changes in the immune system with subsequent improvement of lung function in children ages 6 to 12 with asthma.

A River of Energy While tai chi is a modified martial art with a focus on form, its close relative, qigong, is a mind-body wellness system that uses breath, simple movement and stillness. Both cultivate qi, or life force, that is believed to permeate all natural existence. The concept of qi, yet to be understood scientifically, is the basis of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the focus of many studies in China and elsewhere. “It is believed that qi flows throughout and around the body. If we are healthy, the qi will be moving smoothly and abundantly. If we are not healthy, the qi may be stagnant, excessive or deficient,” says qigong instructor and acupuncturist Jeffrey Chand, in British Columbia, Canada. Robert Chuckrow, a retired physics professor in Ossining, New York, and the author of Tai Chi Dynamics and The Tai Chi Book, explains, “When muscles are tensed, qi is inhibited. Instead,

when muscles are relaxed and the body is open and moves naturally, qi is enhanced. Such cultivation of qi is the main component of qigong. Tai chi actually includes qigong.” Chuckrow currently has two students that are 100 years old and notes that seniors greatly appreciate and benefit from these arts once they experience the connection between mind and body. Lee Holden, a qigong master teacher at the Holden QiGong Center, in Santa Cruz, California, emphasizes the consequence of being in perpetual “fight-orflight” mode from everyday, nonthreatening life stresses. “The waves crashing to the shore, the river flowing down the mountain, demonstrate nature’s boundless energy. We, as human beings, have cut ourselves off from that source of energy. Through qigong practice, we plug back into that natural energy reserve and circulate it through our minds and bodies. Stress, like a kink in the hose, causes a stagnation of qi. Relaxation, like unwinding the kink, gets the qi to flow.”

Nourishing the Nervous System Tai chi and qigong lower the stress hormone cortisol, improve brain function and have been shown to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. Both approaches are part of many addiction recovery programs to help nourish mind-body connections for better managing stress. “In my view, both qigong and tai chi are wonderful exercises for the nervous system, which during practice, undergoes intense moment-to-moment receiving, processing and sending of neural electrical information. This electricity stimulates cells to absorb oxygen and nutrients and expel waste products, and it beneficially helps arrange material within cells,” says Chuckrow. In essence, it’s all about encouraging calm, something we all need. Chand summarizes its benefits superbly. “It empowers individuals to help themselves. The more stress management tools we have to help ourselves, the better our overall health and quality of life is.” Marlaina Donato is a body-mind-spirit author and visionary composer. Connect at AutumnEmbersMusic.com. October 2020

The best way to communicate with a stressed teen, say many child psychologists, is to listen deeply while letting them do most of the talking, and offering sympathetic support while withholding judgment. Instead of giving advice, “Validate your teen’s experience and attempt to step into their shoes. Let your teen know that you hear them, that you support them in their decisions and ask your teen what you can do to help them,” advises clinical psychologist Alyssa Austern, PsyD, of Chatham, New Jersey. Other steps can help a teen weather this time of high stress:

healthy kids

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Back up the basics. Make sure there’s healthy food and snacks in the fridge. Encourage teens to exercise daily, especially outdoors, and support them in getting eight to 10 hours of sleep.

Stressed-Out Teens Ways to Help Them Chill by Ronica O’Hara

eing a teenager is never easy, but it’s even harder these days, with the upheaval of the pandemic intensifying the normal academic, social and hormonal turmoil of these pivotal years. It’s no wonder teens are reporting record levels of stress, anxiety and depression: In a Pew Research survey, 70 percent of teens said mental health was a major problem among their peers—and that was in February, before the pandemic hit. A recent online poll found that most teens are worried that the pandemic will affect their family’s physical or financial health and that many feel lonelier than usual and worry about losing ground in academics and activities. Extending a helping hand to teens is not always well received. They can be notoriously resistant to advice, even when they’re stressed, partly because of their brain chemistry, explains Gail Saltz, M.D., clinical associate professor of psychiatry at the New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell School of Medicine and host of the Personology podcast. A teen’s highly active amygdala makes risk-taking a thrill even as the frontal lobe that weighs consequences is not fully developed, while at the same time, a teen seeks independence—an identity and freedom to be more like an adult. “This combination means their capacity and interest in taking parental direction is not there,” she says. “As a result, parents in reaction often get louder and more insistent in telling them what to do, which fails and drives them further away.” 32

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Make self-compassion a family habit. The self-compassion approach to self-care, which is rapidly gaining ground among psychologists, has three elements: treating ourselves as kindly as we would a dear friend, realizing that many other people have the same problems so we’re not alone, and mindfully and nonjudgmentally observing our emotional state. This method has proven to be helpful not just for adults, but for teens, as well. A University of Edinburgh meta-analysis that synthesized 17 studies of more than 7,000 teens in six countries concluded that those with high levels of self-compassion had lower levels of stress caused by anxiety and depression. University of North Carolina researchers found that teens exhibited lower stress, anxiety and depression, as well as more resilience and gratitude, after six self-compassion sessions. A good place for parents to start is with themselves: If they are anxious, overprotective or fearful, a teen is likely to follow suit, reports a study in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology. Helpful books, websites and programs for both teens and adults can be found at SelfCompassion.org, operated by Dr. Kristin Neff, an associate professor of educational psychology at the University of Texas at Austin who was a pioneer in the concept.

Engage them with creative activities. As teens can seek independence, making sure they spend quality time with the family is also important for their well-being, research shows. “Find ways to connect, converse and unwind together as a family,” advises Crissy Fishbane, of RaleighDurham, North Carolina, co-founder of HER Health Collective, an online community for mothers. “Teens need to see their parents engaging in self-care behaviors themselves, and it’s even better if you can engage in self-care as a family.” She suggests taking a virtual or outdoor yoga class together, playing a board game, having sudoku competitions, learning deepbreathing techniques or starting a family book club.

Encourage reaching out to help others. A study in the Journal of Adolescence suggests that altruistic behaviors, including large and small acts of kindness, may increase teens’ feelings of self-worth, especially if it involves helping strangers. In Poland, the more teens helped out others in a flood, the more supportive and proactive they became, another study found. Depending on their interests, teens may be drawn to local environmental, social justice, religious or political activities. DoSomething.org offers useful ideas and links, and environmental projects for teens can be found at EarthForce.com, SierraClub. com and GlobalClimateStrike.com. Ronica O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com.

Other Helpful Resources Making Friends with Yourself: A Mindful Self-Compassion Program for Teens and Young Adults: centerformsc.org/ msc-teens-adults Seven Expert Tips for Talking with Teens: ParentAndTeen.com/keep-teenstalking-learn-to-listen/tal How to Communicate with Your Teen Through Active Listening: Psy-Ed.com/ wpblog/communicate-with-teen The Kid’s Guide to Service Projects: Over 500 Service Ideas for Young People Who Want to Make a Difference

If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much. ~Jim Rohn October 2020

wise words

Mark Nepo on Living a Wholehearted Life by Sandra Yeyati

estselling author, poet, cancer survivor and inspirational spiritual teacher Mark Nepo has published 22 books and made numerous appearances on Oprah Winfrey’s Super Soul Sunday program. His latest book, published this year, is The Book of Soul: 52 Paths to Living What Matters.

What do you mean by, “To be broken is not a reason to see all things as broken?”

In my cancer journey, after I had a rib removed from my back and a botched chemo treatment, I found myself in a Holiday Inn getting sick every 20 minutes, frightened and in pain, not sure what to do. As the sun started coming up, I realized that while this was happening to me, it wasn’t happening to everyone. Somewhere nearby, a baby was being born and a couple was making love for the first time. Somewhere an estranged parent and grown adult child were talking for the first time after many years. That’s when it came to me that to be broken is no reason to see all things as broken, because the wholeness of life is what is healing. When I am broken, I need the company of those who know what it’s like to be broken, but I also need everything not broken to heal. When I’m afraid, I need the company of those who know what it’s like to be afraid, but I 34

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need everything safe to heal.

How does acceptance strengthen our resilience?

Acceptance is not resignation. Acceptance begins with the hard task or practice of seeing things as they are. When we can see things as they are—clearly—then we have real choices. So, if I am afraid and I give over to my fear, then I’m afraid of everything. If I can see things as they are, I can see more clearly exactly what I’m afraid of, and then I have real choices of what my next steps are. Acceptance lets us move forward.

What practices do you recommend?

Two of the oldest medicines known to human beings are our ability to hold and our ability to listen. Even though there are times when I have been told things I didn’t want to hear, there has never been a time that I have listened or been listened to that hasn’t been healing. There has never been a time when I have held or been held that hasn’t been healing. Another practice is being completely present and holding nothing back. We tend to drift up into our minds, especially when afraid, and one of the reasons that all of the different traditions have breathing or meditation practices is to return NATampa.com

us to where we are. If I start worrying, if I start getting lost in my fear, I try to look at whatever is before me. I’m in my study as I’m talking to you. I’m looking out the window. I’m seeing the leaves on the trees. I take a breath and try to give my full attention to whatever is before me, and then I start getting grounded again. The thing is, we’re never going to be free of fear or pain, because that’s part of living, but when we can be present and practice being real and authentic, then the fear lives in us and we don’t live in the fear.

What is the power of authentic expression?

One of the most powerful things we can do when feeling powerless is admit the truth. When I was a little boy, I was so captivated by a butterfly that I wanted to look at it closely. I didn’t want to hurt it, so I carefully cupped it in my hands. But then I realized that as long as I had it cupped in my hands, I couldn’t see it. I had to let it go to see its magnificent, colorful wings. Forty years later in my cancer journey, I realized that this [experience] was a teacher about expression. When we keep things closed inside us, they pound and make a lot of noise, but we don’t see them. Once we express them, we’re lighter and we see their true colors. For more information, book readings and conversations, visit MarkNepo.com. For webinars, visit Live.MarkNepo.com. Sandra Yeyati, J.D., is a professional writer. Reach her at SandraYeyati@gmail.com.

Do I Need a Nutrition Coach? by Hayley Imbriani, LMT & Dr. Kevin Granger

hat do professional singers, athletes, actors and artists have in common? You might say A LOT of practice, and that is very true. But all of the great ones have a great coach. The elite in any profession must know ALL the ins-and-outs in their field and must have developed exceptional skills. They are coached to a level of smooth and polished execution. All of us could benefit from having a coach educate, train and guide us into the person we want to be. Becoming healthy is no different. There is so much conflicting information out there when it comes to health and nutrition that it becomes a priority to get some expert guidance. We are all unique individuals and our bodies are unique as well. Many health and nutrition principles can be applied to most people, however, some of us have very specialized needs and restrictions. Health

and nutrition are not “one size fits all”. Some foods that may be healthy for one person may be harmful to another. As we examine the world of food and health, we see that food labels are sneaky and many do not have our best interest in mind. Glutenfree and/or fat-free do not necessarily mean good for you and may be just the opposite. Terms and words like “natural flavorings” often turn out to be hidden sugars, grains, chemicals and additives and these can cause devastating effects on your health. You want to eat better and you want to improve your health, but where do you start? Who do you trust and who has the true data on safe and natural body regeneration? By now, you have probably begun to realize or at least suspect that big government, big farms, big pharma and big food industries are more interested in profit than they are in your wellbeing. We are all products of our upbringing, our past

habits and routines, and the ideas we have picked up from all of the “opinion leaders” in our life. And we may have grown up in a lifestyle with little emphasis on health. It can be difficult to learn healthy habits all on your own. Even more important is to make sure you are doing it correctly for you and your family as they are relying on you to make important food decisions for them. Who’s in charge at your house to grocery shop? At Nutritional Wellness, in Clearwater, they coach and educate individually on what not to eat, what your body needs to feel better, and how to grocery shop for yourself, your family and friends. With the guidance of their nutritional professionals, they work oneon-one to help you achieve your health goals, specifically identifying where you need the most help for your specific health conditions, and create a plan with you on how to reach these health goals. They also offer a personalized nutrition coaching program of 12 classes, teaching the basics of how to create a balanced meal; which foods are known dangers for promoting inflammation, heart conditions and cancer; and which foods promote true body regeneration, even finding if there are harmful toxins in your daily products and cosmetics. Individuals can take one class, two or as many as needed to help educate and guide themselves to better health choices, benefiting everyone in their orbit. Being healthy is a lifestyle, not a fad. To truly learn how to live this lifestyle, it is important to seek correct data and true knowledge. This will assure you are on the correct path. Working with health professionals will help keep you accountable as you travel along in your health journey. Nutritional Wellness is located at 205 S Myrtle Ave., Clearwater. For more information, call 727-248-0930 and/or visit GrangerHealth.com. See ad page 14. October 2020

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healing ways

Strong and Supple Joints How to Keep Hips and Knees Happy

by Ronica O’Hara

ccasional knee or hip pain affects almost everyone, keeping us from daily tasks, making sitting painful and walking difficult. Causes can range from over-exercise to injuries, obesity and arthritis as we age. By the time we reach 65 years or older, 69 percent of women and 56 percent of men have arthritic symptoms, according to Boston University researchers. Costly joint replacement surgery which carries a high risk of adverse effects is often recommended for advanced cases, but by taking simple, natural preventive and remedial measures proactively, we can strengthen our knee and hip joints, handle related problems if they arise and remain physically strong and active.

Ways to Strengthen Hips and Knees

Consume foods that nourish bones and connective tissues. For strong bones, eat foods rich in calcium, magnesium and potassium, such as dark leafy greens (bok choy, Chinese cabbage, kale and collard greens), figs, nuts, tofu, avocados and bone broth. Six prunes a day boosted bone density in women over 70 with osteoporosis, research shows. Foods that support flexible 36

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tendons and ligaments include fatty fish, lentils, nuts, vegetables like spinach and broccoli, and colorful fruit like strawberries and oranges. Practice tai chi, qigong or hatha yoga. The gentle, low-impact movements and stretches associated with these approaches get synovial fluid flowing in the larger joints, effecting smoother mobility and increased flexibility; numerous studies document that they reduce joint pain and stiffness. “The key is not just to stretch, but to balance strength and stretching in a safe, mindful way,” says Andrea Trank, a health coach and yoga teacher in Fort Myers, Florida. Although personal or class instruction is best, how-to videos can be found on YouTube. Walk every day. In a four-year Northwestern University study, people at risk of knee osteoarthritis that walked at a moderate or brisk pace for at least 10 minutes a day, one hour a week, had one-eighth the disabled mobility of those that walked less. Posture helps: Walking straight and tall while extending each leg back as far as it’ll go will “really let your glut muscles work,” advises

chiropractor Aaron Rossi, of Marietta, Georgia—an important compensation for the time we sit with knees and hips flexed.

Ways to Lower Pain Levels

Consider the right supplements. Obtaining 1,000 milligrams daily of calcium and 600 international units of vitamin D is essential for bone health, according to the National Institutes of Health; consider taking a supplement if the diet is not adequate. In addition, study-proven options that reduce joint pain in the knees and hips include glucosamine and chondroitin, S-adenosylL-methionine (SAMe) and avocado-soybean unsaponifiable.

Supplements for Suppleness

Glucosamine and chondroitin. Research suggests this combo relieves pain, improves joint mobility and slows arthritic damage to the joints. One study found it benefits up to 70 percent of people with knee arthritis, and a large multinational trial found the mixture to be as effective at reducing pain, stiffness and swelling in knee osteoarthritis as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) celecoxib. It appears most suited for treating moderate to severe pain and takes two months to take effect.

Try acupuncture. A new meta-study of 39 studies with 20,827 patients concluded that acupuncture effectively reduces pain for as long as 12 months, and the National Institutes of Health endorses it for knee pain. “It is believed to stimulate the nervous system and in turn, the way the brain registers pain signals,” says acupuncturist Daryl Thuroff, at the Yinova Center, in New York City. Find an acupuncturist at nccaom.org/find-a-practitioner-directory.

SAMe. This naturally occurring S-adenosyl-L-methionine molecule builds strong joints by delivering sulfur to cartilage, and research shows it may be as effective as aspirin and ibuprofen at improving joint function. It takes a month to take effect, but doesn’t have the side effects of NSAIDs. It’s also been shown to lower depression. Avocado-soybean unsaponifiable (ASU). Routinely used to treat osteoarthritis in Europe, ASU improves symptoms of hip and knee osteoarthritis (OA) and reduces or eliminates the use of NSAIDs, a meta-analylsis concluded; it also appears to reduce OA’s progression.

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The benefits of bodywork. A massage can loosen up tight muscles and realign structural issues in the knees and hips while also lowering stress-producing cortisol and raising levels of pain-reducing serotonin. A study at Canada’s McMaster University found that massage works on the cellular level to reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new mitochondria in muscles. Useful styles are Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release and shiatsu. Ask for references from friends, medical practitioners, fitness centers and natural health stores or find online a certified practitioner with at least 500 hours of training.

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Consult a chiropractor. People with osteoarthritic knees that underwent two weeks of chiropractic knee adjustments had substantially less pain, better mobility and fewer grinding and clicking sensations in the knees, reported a study in The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association. In a small study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, four out of five patients with hip arthritis noticed improved symptoms after nine or fewer chiropractic treatments. Many chiropractors offer not only spinal adjustments, but also a range of treatments from exercises to prolotherapy. Explore injection therapies. Known as regenerative medicine, these therapies use injections in the knee or hip to naturally stimulate the body to produce collagen and rejuvenate tissue. In a British Medical Bulletin meta-study, 82 percent of patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee were satisfied with prolotherapy, which uses dextrose injections. Platelet-rich plasma injections use centrifuged platelets from the patient’s body, and have been used by athletes like Tiger Woods and Rafael Nadal to treat sports injuries. Ronica O’Hara is a Denver-based health writer. Connect at OHaraRonica@gmail.com. October 2020

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conscious eating

A Better Breakfast Healthy Tips and Recipes to Start the Day by April Thompson

reakfast sets the stage for the day ahead, and it can either drain or energize us, depending on the what, when and how much aspects of the meal. While health experts agree that many traditional breakfast foods can do more harm than good, delicious, healthy alternatives are within easy reach of the breakfast table. Morning favorites like pastries, sugary cereals and pancakes, high in refined sugars and carbs, cause insulin production to spike and blood sugar levels to crash, according to David Perlmutter, an acclaimed neurologist based in Naples, Florida, and author of Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth about Wheat, Carbs, and Sugar - Your Brain’s Silent Killers. “People need to train their bodies to tap into the energy reserves within, harvesting fat for energy rather than being reliant on the next meal. A breakfast high in protein and fat will do that,” he says. While often waiting until noon for his first meal of the day, Perlmutter frequently opts for eggs and salad drenched in an extra-virgin olive oil dressing to break the fast. Perlmutter suggests waiting 12 hours or longer between dinner and the next day’s breakfast. “Time-restricted eating”, or intermittent fasting, can have surprising health benefits, helping crank up production of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a powerful initiator for growth of new brain cells, and kick-start autophagy, the body’s method of cleaning out damaged cells, according to the neurologist. A plant-based chef based in Bruges, Belgium, Julie Van den Kerchove switched from a raw, vegan diet to a mainly keto diet, low in carbohydrates, to regain energy after “hitting a wall, experiencing hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies. Before, I would have green smoothies with lots of fruit and leafy greens, but would be ‘hangry’ a few hours later. Now my breakfast consists more of healthy fats and proteins, which helps me stay satisfied and energized until lunchtime. I experience more mental clarity and calmness because my blood sugar is not going up and down,” says Van den Kerchove, a blogger and author of vegan, raw-food and keto cookbooks.

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A typical breakfast for her now is a chia seed pudding with a nut or coconut milk, berries, nuts and seeds with a protein powder and stevia, which is easy to prepare in advance, or a warm porridge with hemp seeds, nut butter, chia seeds and almond, hemp or coconut milk, which is high in fiber and healthy fats. “If I feel like [having] something savory, I’ll have seed crackers topped with avocado and eggs or a Mediterranean omelet,” she adds. Teresa Fung, a professor of nutrition at Simmons University and adjunct professor at Harvard University, both in Boston, cautions about completely cutting carbs from breakfast, however. “Fruits and vegetables are important healthy sources of carbs, essential to get enough fiber to maintain healthy gut microbiome and feed the good bacteria in your GI tract,” says Fung, who is an associate editor for The Journal of Nutrition. “Optimal morning fuel will include a good dose of protein, vitamins and minerals, fiber, antioxidants and some hearthealthy fats. It will also include a healthy source of carbs that your body can use as energy, leaving proteins to be used for protein synthesis,” says Fung, suggesting a simple, but hearty breakfast of high-fiber oatmeal or yogurt with nuts and fruit. Like Perlmutter, Fung stresses the importance of eating during daylight hours when certain enzymes are activated. “Our bodies react to daylight even when our eyes are still closed. Eating should match up with our biological clocks, as we are daytime animals, using most of our energy in the day,” she says. Fung notes Americans that tend to make breakfast the smallest meal of the day and dinner the largest need to better balance meal sizes rather than load up on calories late in the day. These experts agree on the need to tune into the body’s signals for hunger and satiety, not just eating breakfast on an autopilot schedule. “If I’ve eaten a huge holiday dinner the night before, I may skip my morning meal. I’m a huge proponent in being flexible and listening to your body,” says Van den Kerchove. Connect with Washington, D.C., freelance writer April Thompson at AprilWrites.com.

Healthy First Meals These oats are a great dessert/breakfast mix that’s delicious, but good for you, too. It’s made clean by cooking the apples using coconut sugar instead of refined white sugar and adding cinnamon and nutmeg for spice. Prep the oats by mixing all the ingredients, then make a date caramel sauce that’s healthier than any caramel sauce you can purchase from the grocery store and so luscious that you’ll fall in love with it. For the Cinnamon Apples: 2 large Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apples, cored, peeled and diced 2 Tbsp coconut sugar ⅛ tsp cinnamon ⅛ tsp nutmeg For the Oats: 1½ cups rolled oats 1½ cups unsweetened almond milk 2 Tbsp chia seeds 1 tsp vanilla extract ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

For the Date Caramel Sauce: 10–12 pitted dried dates ⅛ tsp sea salt ½ cup hot water, divided To make the cinnamon apples, combine the apples, coconut sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a saucepan, and cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until the apples are softened, but not mushy. For the oats, combine the oats, milk, chia seeds, vanilla and cinnamon in a mixing bowl. To make the date caramel sauce, process the dates and sea salt in a food processor until they are finely chopped. Add the water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to the dates until the mixture becomes smooth and resembles caramel. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor. Spoon half of the oat mixture into the bottom of an 8-ounce jar with a lid or a sealable container, then top with the date sauce and apples. Repeat in a second jar with the remaining ingredients.

photo by lacey baier

Caramel Apple Cinnamon Crisp Overnight Oats

Refrigerate the oats overnight or for at least 4 hours. The oats can be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator or heated in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Reprinted from Clean-Eating Breakfasts and Lunches Made Simple, by Lacey Baier.

Salmon Cakes with Fennel & Parsnips For the vegetables: ½ cup fennel, shaved thin (use a mandolin slicer for thinnest slices) ¼ cup parsnips, shaved ½ Tbsp coconut oil For the salmon cakes: 6 oz can boneless, skinless, wild-caught salmon, drained 1 egg 1 Tbsp quinoa flakes 1 Tbsp fresh chives, chopped 1 tsp capers 1 tsp lemon juice ½ Tbsp coconut oil, for frying 4 radishes with greens Heat oil in a skillet and sauté fennel and parsnips until tender, about 7 minutes.

Remove to serving plate. In a mixing bowl, combine salmon, egg, quinoa flakes, chives, capers and lemon juice. Stir to mix until most of the large chunks of salmon are broken down. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat,

form salmon mixture into 2 patties and cook 4 minutes per side. Place salmon cakes over fennel and parsnips and garnish with radishes. Serve warm. Provided by David Perlmutter, DrPerlmutter.com. October 2020

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natural pet

Cancer-Free Pets Five Ways to Help Keep Them Healthy by Karen Shaw Becker

eterinarians are seeing cancer in more and younger pets these days than ever before. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, approximately one in four dogs will develop cancer at some point in life, including almost half of dogs over the age of 10. But taking practical steps can help lower a pet’s risk. Don’t allow a dog or cat to become overweight. Studies show that restricting the number of calories an animal eats prevents and/or delays the progression of tumor development across species. Fewer calories cause the cells of the body to block tumor growth, whereas too many calories can lead to obesity, which is closely linked to increased cancer risk in humans. There’s a connection between too much glucose, increased insulin sensitivity, inflammation and oxidative stress, all factors in obesity and cancer. It’s important to remember that fat doesn’t just sit in a pet’s body harmlessly—it produces inflammation that can promote tumor development.

Feed an anti-inflammatory diet. Anything that creates or promotes inflammation in the body increases the risk for cancer. Current research suggests cancer is actually a chronic inflammatory disease fueled by carbohydrates. The inflammatory process creates an environment in which abnormal cells proliferate. Cancer cells require the glucose in carbohydrates to grow and multiply, so work to eliminate this cancer energy source. Carbs to remove from a pet’s diet include processed grains, fruits with fructose and starchy vegetables like potatoes. Keep in mind that all dry pet food (“fast food”) contains some form of potentially carcinogenic, highly processed starch. It may be grain-free, but it can’t be starch-free because it’s not possible to manufacture kibble without using some type of starch. The correlation between consuming fast foods and cancer has been established in humans, so it’s wise to 40

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incorporate as much fresh, unprocessed food into an entire family’s diet as can be afforded. Cancer cells generally can’t use dietary fats for energy, so high amounts of good-quality fats are nutritionally beneficial for dogs fighting cancer, along with a reduced amount of protein and no carbs—basically a ketogenic diet. A healthy diet for a pet is one that’s anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer, and consists of real, preferably raw, whole foods. It should include high-quality protein, including muscle meat, organs and bones. It should also include high amounts of animal fat, high levels of EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) and a few fresh-cut, low-glycemic veggies. This species-appropriate diet is high in moisture content and contains no grains or starches. Also make sure the diet is balanced following ancestral diet recommendations, which have much more rigorous standards (higher amounts of minerals and vitamins) than the current dietary recommendations for pets. A few beneficial supplements like probiotics, medicinal mushrooms, digestive enzymes and super green foods can also be very beneficial to enhance immune function.

10 Classic Symptoms Not to Ignore Dogs and cats can develop cancer almost anywhere in the body, which is why the symptoms vary depending on the tissues and organs involved and the severity of the disease. Make an appointment with a veterinarian if a pet displays any of these warning signs of cancer.

Reduce or eliminate a pet’s exposure to toxins and minimize chronic stress. These include chemical pesticides like flea and tick preventives, lawn chemicals linked to cancer (weed killers, herbicides, etc.), tobacco smoke, flame retardants, household cleaners and air-scenting products like candles and plug-ins. Because we live in a toxic world and avoiding all chemical exposure is nearly impossible, a periodic detoxification protocol can also benefit a pet. Research points to the benefits of identifying and removing sources of chronic stress in an animal’s life. Focusing on providing environmental enrichment and opportunities for dogs to just be dogs (play, sniff and run) on a daily basis is important in keeping them happy and healthy.

1. Unusual swellings that don’t go away or that grow. The best way to discover lumps, bumps or swelling on a dog or cat is to pet them. 2. Sores that won’t heal. Non-healing sores can be a sign of infection or cancer and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. 3. Weight loss. Illness could be the reason a pet is losing weight when it isn’t on a diet.

For dogs, especially a large or giant breed, hold off neutering or spaying until the age of 18 months to 2 years. Studies have linked spaying and neutering to increasing cancer rates in dogs. Even better, investigate alternative ways to sterilize a pet without upsetting their important hormone balance.

4. Loss of appetite. Reluctance or refusal to eat is a sign of possible illness. 5. Bleeding or discharge. Bleeding can occur for a number of reasons, most of which signal a problem. Unexplained vomiting and diarrhea are considered abnormal discharges, as well.

Refuse unnecessary vaccinations. Vaccine protocols should be tailored to minimize risk and maximize protection, taking into account the breed, background, nutritional status, lifestyle and overall vitality of the pet. Vaccines may cause cancer, and titer testing is a responsible way to ensure a pet has adequate immunity in place of over-vaccinating on an annual basis.

6. Offensive smell. An unpleasant odor is a common sign of tumors of the anus, mouth or nose.

Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, a proactive and integrative veterinarian in the Chicago area, consults internationally and writes Mercola Healthy Pets.

7. Difficulty eating or swallowing. This is a common sign of cancers of the mouth or neck. 8. Reluctance to exercise or low energy level. This is often one of the first signs that a pet is not feeling well.

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9. Persistent lameness. There can be many causes of lameness, including nerve, muscle or bone cancer. 10. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating. These symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Many of these symptoms also occur with other disorders and diseases, but any pet showing one or more of these signs needs prompt veterinary attention. October 2020

NAPUB110

calendar of events Printed calendar is a gratis feature exclusively for advertisers who make this magazine possible. Non-advertisers are free to use the on-line calendar at NATampa.com. SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 Looking Natural with Botox and Fillers – 4:30pm. Live Facebook seminar, all about keeping to the natural using Botox and fillers, presented by Jaime Applefield, PA, from Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center. Free. Facebook.com/ PeaksOfHealth.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 NLP 2-Day Training: Live &/or Online – 10am5pm, October 17-18. No prerequisite for this fun, interactive class. Patricia V. Scott, PhD, Certified Master Trainer, teaches NLP principles, presuppositions and techniques for immediate personal or professional use. Live (Dunedin, FL) or Online (out-of-area). Register by 10/3: $145, $130/UPHI Mbrs; After 10/3: $160; $145/Mbrs. Repeat $75. 14 CEUs-Hypnotists/NLP Practitioners. 727-9435003, UPHypnosis.com.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21 Free Mini Webinar: Dynamic Aging with Hypnosis-NLP – 7:30-8:15pm. Live webinar discussing Hypnosis & NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) fundamentals with Certified Master Trainer Patricia

V. Scott. With 28 years’ experience as a Medical Hypnotherapist & NLP Master Practitioner, Patricia moderates and answers questions (3rd Weds. monthly/new topic). Register by 5pm 10/21 for login details: 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis@outlook. com, UPHypnosis.com.

Email your favorite pet picture to Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com for inclusion in the magazine.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22 Webinar: Powerful Hypnosis-NLP Pre-Talks – 7-9pm. Learn powerful Hypnosis-NLP Pre-Talk techniques to set your client UP for success. Patricia V. Scott, Certified Medical Hypnotherapist & Master Trainer, guides this exploration into your inner mind. $25, $20/UPHI Mbrs; $15 Repeat. Includes scripts, materials and 2 CEUs (hypnotists). 3rd Thurs. monthly/different topic. Register by 5pm 10/22 for log-in details. 727-943-5003, UPHypnosis.com.

Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. ~Mark Twain

plan ahead SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Body Mind Spirit Expo – 10am-6pm Sat. 10am5pm Sun. Nov. 21-22. Retail exhibitors offer everything from natural and holistic health products to spiritual books, enlightened art and crystals. Healers provide treatments from massage and yoga techniques to intuitive readings. $12/weekend admission includes all lectures, demos and admission to exhibit hall. See ad this issue for $1/off admission. Florida State Fairgrounds Special Events Center, 4800 US Hwy 301 N, Tampa. Info 541-482-3722, ext. 412, Ali@bmse.net, bmse.net.

Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy. ~Anne Frank

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Fall Health & Fitness Festival – 9am-2pm. St. Pete Health & Wellness, in collaboration with other health and fitness professionals, brings optimal wellness resources to this family event. Live DJ; food and drinks; practitioners, including doctors, nurses, massage therapists, fitness experts, yoga therapists, essential oil experts and more. CDC guidelines followed, including masks. 100% of profits go to Alpha House, Pinellas County’s only residential maternity program for crisis pregnancies. Hell’s Bells Performance Training, 131 22nd St. S, St. Pete. Info 727-202-6807.

October 2020

community resource guide

Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide call 727.865.9339 or go to NATampa.com and request a media kit.

ACUPUNCTURE Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine Chris Dziubinski, DOM, AP, L. Ac 12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com

Florida Board Certified Acupuncture Physician offering acupuncture therapies for the whole family. Established, comfortable, caring and professional integrative medicine clinics in South & North Tampa. In-network with most medical insurances; accept payments from HRA, HSA and FSA.

Professional Herbalists Training Program Acupuncture & Herbal Therapies 2520 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 727-551-0857 AcuHerbals.com

The 2-year program meets one weekend each month for class and Wednesday nights for our hands-on student clinic. This program is designed to create clinical herbalists in a combination of Chinese and western herbalism. Many open classes. Designed to meet American Herbalists Guild standards. See ad page 36.

Orthomolecular Nutrition & Wellness Natural Med Therapies Machelle Perkins, D.O.M. 7600 Bryan Dairy Rd # C, Largo 727-541-2211 NaturalMedTherapies.com

National & state board certified with 15+ years experience in Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Cold Laser & more. Bio-Puncture and Mesotherapy to treat pain, ADHD, anxiety, depression. Lab testing, most insurances. Free Nutritional Consultation.

9225 Ulmerton Rd., Ste. 312, Largo 727-518-9808 OrthoLiving.com.

LIFEWORKS WELLNESS CENTER

Dr. David Minkoff Sue Morgan, APRN and Karima Redouan, APRN 301 Turner St., Clearwater 727-466-6789 LifeWorksWellnessCenter.com Specializing in Ozone Therapy, IV Therapy, Heavy Metal Detoxification, Neurological Issues, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Gut Issues, Thyroid Issues and IPT for Cancer treatment. See ad inside front cover.

apothecary Carolyn Zinober, LMT, Esthetician, Clinical Herbalist, Aromatherapist 607 1st. Ave. SW, Largo 727-501-1700

SixOaksWellness.com Clinical herbalist and massage therapist offering consultations, extensive line of Eastern/Western Herbs, Teas, Essential oils, CBD, Supplements, and learning workshops. Visit your neighborhood apothecary today! See ad page 6.

astrology Astrology for Your Soul

To Advertise in the Resource Guide email Debbey at dwilson@natampa.com or call 727.865.9339 44

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GENTLE TOUCH CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS CENTER Dr. Colette Cseszko 10575 68th Ave., Seminole 727-235-3265 Gentle-Chiro.com

Spa-like wellness center offering chiropractic, acupuncture and physical therapy modalities. 18+ years’ experience in treatment of spine-related conditions, including tailbone misalignments, chronic sacroiliac dysfunction, piriformis issues and upper cervical disorders. On site X-ray. See ad page 33.

Natural Living Chiropractic & wellness center Dr. Paula Giusto 310 South Brevard Ave., Tampa 813-253-2565 NaturalLivingChiropractic.org

We address the underlying root cause of disease by using a variety of modalities such as Nutrient IV’s, Chelation, Weight loss, HRT, PEMF, Ozone Therapy and more. To see if you qualify for Medical Marijuana go to OrthoMMJ.com.

Six Oaks Wellness Apothecary

alternative medicine

chiropractic

Aluna Michaels, M.A., Esoteric Astrologer Dunedin 727-239-7179 AlunaMichaels.com Second-generation astrologer and Soul Evolutionist practitioner. Over 25 years of experience. Insightful, unique perspective on goals and issues. “Together we will unveil your soul’s purpose.”

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Family chiropractic care, wellness care, nutritional counseling, neuromuscular massage therapy. Jin Shin Jyutsu & craniosacral therapy.

colon Hydrotherapy RENEW LIFE

Bonnie Barrett 28469 US Hwy 19 N. #402, Clearwater 727-461-7227 RenewLifeFla.com, Lic# MA14802 MM35406 25 years experience. Expert in colon hydrotherapy using pressure points, abdominal massage, essential oils, and lymphatic drainage. All disposable tubing used. Very comfortable and relaxing room with private bathroom. See ad page 31.

dentists Beata carlson, DDS

2701 Park Dr. Suite 4, Clearwater 727-888-6523 NaturalAndCosmeticDentistry.com Natural, Holistic, Aesthetic Dentistry. Careful Silver filling removal. Non-metal crowns and bridges. Be pampered in our Spa-like atmosphere. See ad back cover.

paul t. rodeghero, dds

Clearwater Family Dental 215 S Myrtle Ave., Clearwater 727-442-3363 MyClearWaterFamilyDental.com We are a full service family dental practice that stresses metal free restorations, safe mercury removal, ozone and laser dentistry. We welcome patients of all ages and can handle any concern that you may have. See ad pages 3 & 4.

Robert J. Yu, DMD

Tampa Bay Dental Implants & Periodontics 6700 Crosswinds Dr., Ste. 200-B, St. Petersburg 727-384-9122 TBPerio.com

The only board certified periodontist and implant surgeon in Tampa Bay offering ceramic/ zirconia non-metal implants. State-of-the-art treatments include CBT imaging, LANAP and digital intraoral scanner, eliminating messy impressions. See ad page 10.

herbalist Rose Kalajianâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Herbalist

Natural Health Hut Clinic and Herb Farm 813-991-5177 ImHerbalist.com Specializing in growing the herbs used in my clinic practice and in the Herbal Remedies I formulate. Consultations are available for humans, dogs, cats, and horses. Promoting health through the use of Herbs. See ad page 22.

hypnosis UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES HYPNOSIS, INC.

Patricia V. Scott, President 727-943-5003 UPHypnosis@yahoo.com, UPHypnosis.com Professional Hypnosis & NLP Certification Training, Weekly classes & Private sessions (Smoking, Weight, Stress, Sports, Habits), Clinical/Medical Hypnotherapy available w/referral. Speaking Services & Corporate Programs. See ad page 25.

Yoga is just good for you. ~Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

INTUITIVE HEALING SolGarden Holistic Therapy, LLC Ellen Mooney, Reiki Master 727-754-4340 EllenMooney7@gmail.com SolGardenHolistic.com

Relax, de-stress and come back to the peace of your Soul with Guided Meditations, Intuitive Healing or Usui Reiki sessions by phone and in-person. With over 25 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience and training, I will help you release energy clutter and shift you to your true light-filled self. Gift Certificates available.

integrative medicine Integrative Therapeutics Dr. Prudhvi Karumanchi 8320 Stone Run Ct., Tampa 33615 813-322-6171 IntTherapeutics.com

Committed to finding the root cause, Holistic MD offers: IV Nutrition, Regenerative Treatments, Functional Medicine, Heavy Metal Detox, Energy Healing, Weight Loss, Anti-aging and more. Out-of-Network Provider.

Mind Body spirit Care

Ron N. Shemesh, M.D. 12952 N Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa 813-935-CARE (2273) MindBodySpiritCare.com Integrative & holistic medicine for women & men: Natural Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging, IV Chelation, Nutritional Vitamin Therapy, Fatigue & Stress Management, Weight Loss, Yoga, Nutritional Counseling. Affiliated with St. Joseph Hospital. Most insurance accepted.

Peaks of Health Metabolic Medical Center Tracie Leonhardt, DO 1120 Belcher Rd. S., Ste. 2, Largo 727-826-0838 PeaksOfHealth.com

Dr. Leonhardt is Board Certified & Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Offers a personalized program for each individual patient. Hormone replacement therapy, weight loss, thyroid, GI issues, Diabetes, infrared sauna, IV nutrition, Anti-aging, Chronic fatigue, adrenal fatigue, and toxicities. See ad pages 11 and 27.

St. Petersburg Health & Wellness Dr. Les Cole Kathie Gonzales, ARNP 2100 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N, St. Petersburg 727-202-6807 StPetehw.com AwakeningWellness.org Functional, Regenerative, Integrative & Preventative Medicine. Treating Thyroid, Autoimmune Diseases, Cancer Support, Natural Hormone Replacement, Stem Cells, Exosomes, PRP and Joint Rejuvenation, IV Nutritional Therapy. See ad pages 9 and 19.

Success by design

9095 Belcher Road, Pinellas Park 727-548-0001 PoundsAwayTampaBay.com A Wellness Center for Age-Management, Functional Medicine and Medical Weight Loss. Specializing in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement including Pellet Therapy, Gut Health/Food Allergies, Detoxification, Nutritional Evaluations, Acupuncture, Massage therapy and more. See ad page 7.

Young Foundational Health Center John D. Young, M.D. 7241 Bryan Dairy Road, Largo 727-545-4600 YoungFoundationalHealth.com

Author of Beyond Treatment. Creator of Young Health Products. Offering specialized treatments for chronic diseases. Therapies include Bio-identical Hormone, Stem Cell, Vitamin IV, Chelation, Ozone. Special Testing and Nutritional Education. See ad page 5.

SHAMANIC HEALING Shamanic Practitioner/ Clinical HypnotherapisT

Allarah LaVelle, MS, LASAC, CAC, CHT US Hwy. 19N, Ste. 112, Clearwater 33761 520-349-4884 Allarah2222@gmail.com AllarahsHolisticAlternatives.com Shamanic drumming/sound healing; EFT; hypnotherapy; solution-focused CBT. Specializing in PTSD, trauma/abuse, anger, domestic violence, anxiety, depression and addiction issues.

October 2020

thermography

spiritual intuitive

GREENPOINT THERMOGRAPHY

Lisa Miliaresis

Extreme Communication 727-239-0656 Lisa@2Communicate.net 2Communicate.net Lisa offers private individual and group channeling sessions, as well as private counseling sessions for those looking for direction in developing their own personal practice.

John D. Bartone MD Thomas Hudson MD 7901 4th Street North, Suite 316 St. Petersburg, FL 33702 727-576-0100 GreenPointThermography.com

Private sessions using various healing, clearing & spiritual modalities. Akashic Records, Intuitive Medium, Astrologer, Numerologist, Meditation, Chakra-Balancing, Tarot/ Oracles, Candles, EOL Transition, Teacher/Mentor & more. See website.

Healthy PAWsibilities Natural Pet Wellness Center Dr. Cathy Alinovi, DVM 628 Cleveland St., #17, Clearwater 727-510-3665 HealthyPawsibilities.com.

Offering only holistic health options. Nutrition, herbal support, body balancing, canine fitness, reiki and more. See ad page 40.

The only physician owned and operated thermography practice in Tampa Bay - serving Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties. Accredited by the American College of Clinical Thermology. See ad page 29.

UniverSoulLight Consulting Rev. Amanda Segovia, Reiki Master, Certified SRT Personal Consultant UniverSoulLight.com UniverSoulLight@gmail.com

veterinarian

Medicine River Animal Hospital florida medical Thermography

June Drennon, CCT 2008 JuneDrennon@FloridaMedicalThermography.com 727-729-2711 FloridaMedicalThermography.com

Shawna L. Green, DVM 13495 Gulf Boulevard Madeira Beach 727-299-9029 MedicineRiverAnimalHospital.com

Certified Clinical Thermographer 2008. Mindful Wellness with Thermography! Knowledge is power: Know your risk factors to make corrections and avoid developing pathology. Call for location convenient for you. See ad page 33.

The Diabetes challenge ISSUE

Coming Next Month November

Personalized Diabetes Strategies

Plus: Skin Care

To advertise in our next issue, call 727-865-9339 46

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NATampa.com

Compassionate health care catered toward the needs of your pet offering preventative medicine, surgery, dentistry, senior wellness, and more. See ad page 40.

We are looking for the next Natural Awakenings publishers—the connectors, the change makers, the motivated individuals that want to make a difference in their community. This is more than a job; it’s a life-changing opportunity to inspire others to make choices that benefit themselves and the world around them. And you’ll have fun while you’re doing it! Financing opportunities are available for as little as $15,000 down. Call us for more information, we would love to talk! Natural Awakenings is a franchise family of 55+ healthy living magazines, celebrating 26 years of publishing! This rewarding, homebased franchise opportunity includes training and ongoing support, following a wellestablished and proven business model.

Learn more today:

239-530-1377

NaturalAwakenings.com/Franchise

Natural Awakenings Tampa Bay October 2020

Articles inside

TAI CHI AND QIGONG

STRONG AND

WISHFUL RECYCLING